Touring a residential care home is the best way to understand whether it’s the right fit for your loved one. Bring this checklist with you, take notes, and compare homes side by side.
Staffing and caregivers
- How many caregivers are on duty during the day? Overnight?
- How are caregivers trained, including in dementia care?
- How long have most caregivers worked here?
Care and daily life
- What help is available with bathing, dressing, toileting and mobility?
- How are medications managed?
- What does a typical day look like? Are there activities and time outdoors?
- Are meals home-cooked, and can special diets be accommodated?
Licensing and safety
- Is the home licensed by Texas HHSC? Is it a Type A or Type B assisted living facility?
- How are falls, emergencies and changes in health handled?
- Is there an emergency and evacuation plan?
Costs and agreements
- What is included in the monthly rate, and what costs extra?
- How are rate changes handled if care needs increase?
- What are the admission and discharge policies?
Communication with families
- How and how often does the home update families?
- What are the visiting guidelines?
- Who should we call with questions or concerns?
Need help finding homes to tour?
Quality Care Referral Network LLC, an independent referral partner of Care Home Association, helps families identify residential care homes across North Texas based on care needs, preferences, location and budget. Find a care home.
